Description
Very rare original Salmson with GS8 suspension chassis (no. 21. 112), famous GSS engine with 3 roller bearings, original Salmson 4-speed gearbox and Rudge rims. One of the few Salmsons with factory Grand Prix bodywork. According to Chris Draper's research, the bodywork was taken from the 1928 Salon car. In the late 1920s, Salmson offered its (racing) customers the very best. The car is registered in the Netherlands (MT 803 in the UK). Its current owner has owned this Salmson for over 20 years. In the late 1950s, Mark Rigg and his father, famous Bugatti restorers and drivers, bought the car from Ken Radburn, founder of the Salmson register in England. They made the main change from the original specification by fitting an underfloor fuel tank rather than an exhaust tank. This was to lower the centre of gravity, and they didn't like a tank above their knees. The rear brakes are also operated by rods rather than cables. Reservoir pressure comes from a Bugatti air pump. The current owner has installed a 'hidden' electric fuel pump, so that he can keep both hands on the wheel! Both systems can be used. After the Rigg family, the car passed into the hands of Guy Weightman, a good friend of Chris Draper. Guy had also acquired all the existing Salmson parts from the importer through Vic Dutton, who worked for SMS London. In 2003, Chris Draper bought back his friend's stock of parts, including the car. Shortly afterwards, the current owner acquired this beautiful and rare Salmson. The car was in remarkable original condition, but needed a mechanical overhaul. The engine was made by John Deacon. A new engine block with wider flanges was used, new crankshaft bearings with a reinforced bridge around the central bearing, new lightweight connecting rods (Arrow), new high-compression pistons, an improved oil system, new cross-shaft wheels, etc. New bearings were fitted in the crankshaft. New bearings were installed in the gearbox and the wheels received new spokes. The brakes were fitted with soft liners, which considerably improved braking. Special Michelin Bibendum tyres were fitted. The cylinder head was a very rare 3-port cylinder head, offering a choice of one or two carburettors. The car was fitted with a central SU, but now runs on two magnificent original Solex MHD carburettors. A special 4:1 stainless steel external exhaust system has also been built. To ensure proper cooling in racing conditions and high outside temperatures, the owner installed a bypass and a two-speed water pump (also concealed). For added safety, a Kenlow fan has also been installed. In accordance with Dutch regulations, aluminium bike fins were manufactured, and in 2021 the cylinder head and cambox were overhauled. Two new overhead camshafts (made by Kent UK), new rocker arms, (slightly larger) valves... all made by BDRS UK. This rare and original car was part of the 'From Cyclecar to Grand Sport' exhibition at the Louwman Museum in 2023. It drives very well and looks great, paving the way for the Mille Miglia. After 22 years, it's time to hand it over to another enthusiast.
